Military Training Exercises

Images depict soldiers engaged in various military training activities, showcasing individual and team skills under realistic conditions with weapons.

Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/WosunanxPhotostoryx 21538121 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

A Paratrooper assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, participates in a stress shoot at Fort Bragg, N.C. on Janurary 7, 2021. The event is designed to measure the physical fitness and shooting capabilities of a Paratrooper in a stressful environment. The stress shoot challenged Paratroopers to overcome multiple challenges in addition to firing their weapons including a sled drag, kettlebell run, and wheelbarrow push.

A U.S. Marine with 3d Battalion, 2nd Marines conducts a live fire range in Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2022. This range integrates raiding and demolition tactics to enhance the Marines' ability to breach obstructions and perform combat operations in an urban environment. 3/2 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division.

220715-N-VM474-1283 ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 15, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Nava-Hernandez, assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fires an M4 service rifle during a live-fire exercise aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), July 15, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Soldiers of Squad 7, United States Army Reserves, participate in a zero range during the U.S. Army Best Squad Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 2, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events that test their physical endurance, technical skills, and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue. (U.S Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Kyle Castrovinci)

Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/WosunanxPhotostoryx 21538121 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

Army Sgt. Zachary Scuncio, a military police officer with the Rhode Island Army National Guards 169th Military Police Company, engages targets on the combat pistol qualification course while competing in the 2017 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Ripley, Minn., Tuesday, July 18, 2017. The competition is a mentally and physically challenging three-day event that tests Soldiers on a variety of tactical and technical skills to determine the Army Guards Soldier and noncommissioned of the year. The winners move on to compete in the Department of the Army Best Warrior Competition, battling it out with Soldiers from throughout the Army to be named the Armys Soldier and NCO of the year.

U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, conduct Range 400, a company-level combined arms training event, during Marine Littoral Regiment Training Exercise (MLR-TE) at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Feb. 9, 2023. MLR-TE is a large-scale, service-level exercise designed to train, develop, and experiment with the 3d MLR as part of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force, led by 3d Marine Division, operating as a Stand-in Force across a contested and distributed maritime environment.

A U.S. Army infantryman with Bayonet Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 11th Infantry Division, sights in on an enemy target with his M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System while acting as opposition forces for Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, April 1, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere.

A Marine with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) completes M4 rifle qualification requirements July 26, 2022, on Range 18 on North Post at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 2/24 is an infantry battalion based out of Chicago consisting of approximately 1,000 Marines and Sailors. The battalion falls under the 24th Marine Regiment and the 4th Marine Division. The 2/24 was holding annual training at Fort McCoy.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Frederick Carpinello, a scout sniper with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, 1st Marine Division, engages a target with an M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System during Expeditionary Operations Training Group Sniper Course 22-2 on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2022. The course provided Marines advanced marksmanship skills and employment techniques to better support the maritime raid force component of the Marine Expeditionary Unit.

A U.S. Marine Corps recruit with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, shoots the Marine Corps table three course of fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 27, 2022. This training provided recruits the opportunity to fire at targets at unknown distances.

U.S. Army Reserve Soldier Sgt. Javion Siders, assigned to the 982nd Combat Camera Company (Airborne) conducts M4 Carbine marksmanship qualifications on Fort Jackson, SC, April 9, 2022. Soldiers qualify their marksmanship every year in order to maintain combat readiness.

060123-A-6365W-057. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fob Loyalty State: Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: 101ST

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Sung Shin, a fires and effects integrator, with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires a M4 carbine during a Combat Marksmanship Program range as part of 2nd Brigade Platoons field exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 14, 2024. CMP allows Marines to maintain weapon proficiency by engaging targets in a competitive environment with primary and secondary weapon systems. 5th ANGLICO Marines refined their shooting fundamentals through advanced marksmanship training, enhancing their lethality. Shin is a native of Duluth, GA. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert Moss, a fire team leader assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Company, Europe does participates in competition alongside Spanish Marines assigned to Marine Infantry Brigade, and Italian Marines assigned to Brigade San Marco as part of exercise Lisa Azul in Sierra del Retin, Spain, Sept. 15, 2022. Lisa Azul is an annual bilateral training exercise that takes place aboard Naval Station Rota and Sierra del Retin and focuses on critical skills such as live-fire, helicopter rope suspension techniques, non-lethal combatives, and physical fitness to foster camaraderie and sustain interoperability amongst U.S. and partner forces and improve lethality in security and infantry operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Fernando Sulsanvelez, an infantryman with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, fires an M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle during a live-fire range for at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Oct. 3, 2022. The training allowed infantry companies and the medium missile battery with 3d LCT to rehearse maneuver proficiency and conduct expeditionary advanced base operations while integrated into the 3d MLR.

U.S. Army Warrant Officer 1 Jacob Regan, 501st Military Intelligence Brigade, shoots an M-4 during the Eighth Army 2022 Best Warrior and Squad Competition at Rodriguez Live-Fire Range, South Korea, May 10, 2022. The Eighth Army Best Warrior and Squad Competition is a week-long competition consisting of several events to test the participants general Army knowledge and skills.

A U.S. Army Soldier qualifies with the M4 carbine during a Infantry Advanced Leaders Course on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, April 5, 2022. The Advanced Leaders Course, hosted by the 254th Regional Training Institute, New Jersey Army National Guard, is a branch-specific course that provides Soldiers selected for promotion to Staff Sgt. an opportunity to enhance leadership, technical skill, tactical expertise and experience needed to lead squad-size units. Class 22-02 has Soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division, 82nd Airborne Division, and the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. Soldiers in camouflage military uniforms carrying weapons, Reconnaissance missions in rugged mountains, Assault infantry battle training. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/WosunanxPhotostoryx 21538195 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

U.S. Army Spc. Samuel Alvarez, a member of the 101st Airborne Divisions Best Squad, familiarizes himself with his M4 Carbine in preparation for the M4 qualification portion of the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, Georgia, July, 26, 2022. The M4 Carbine range was one of several events during the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition that tested each competitors weapon proficiency and technical expertise.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Gregory Johnson, a combat engineer officer with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, sights in during the Intramural Marksmanship Competition at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 6, 2022. The Marine Corps Intramural Marksmanship Competition inspires unit cohesion and mission readiness by allowing Marines to compete and improve lethality with both rifle and pistol weapons.

A Marine with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) completes M4 rifle qualification requirements July 26, 2022, on Range 18 on North Post at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 2/24 is an infantry battalion based out of Chicago consisting of approximately 1,000 Marines and Sailors. The battalion falls under the 24th Marine Regiment and the 4th Marine Division. The 2/24 was holding annual training at Fort McCoy.

U.S. Soldier assigned to the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team-Airborne (173rd IBCT ABN) scan sector of fire during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 13, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Armys 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations at the U.S. Armys Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas.

CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo - U.S. Army Spc. John W. Walter, a medic with the 547th Medical Company (Area Support), 56th Multifunctional Medical Battalion, 62nd Medical Brigade, and a native of Richland, Wash., fires his M4 rifle during the weapons qualification portion of the Kosovo Force Regional Command East Best Warrior Competition at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, Sept. 30, 2022. After completing three days of grueling tasks and competing against two other junior enlisted Soldiers, Walter was named the Best Warrior in the enlisted category.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 35th Infantry Division conduct M17 and M4 individual weapons qualification ranges at Udairi Ranges, Kuwait, Sept. 22, 2022.

A U.S. Marine sets security during a live-fire and maneuver range as part of Reconnaissance Certification Exercise at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Feb 1, 2024. Live-fire and maneuver ranges give Marines the opportunity to engage and destroy targets in a dynamic environment. RCERT is a battalion level exercise that evaluates Marines on all ground reconnaissance warfighting skills and tactics. Marine Corps

The soldiers from the 104th Engineering Battalion are on the Fort Dix Range Complex, Range 10 completing the units 10 Meter Zero targeting. (photos taken by the Fort Dix Training Support Center / Daniel Amburg)

A U.S. Marine Corps recruit with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, fires down range during the table two course of fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 16, 2024. The table two course of fire teaches recruits the fundamentals of safety and marksmanship in combat shooting positions and rifle carries.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Roberto Zintzunluna, a motor vehicle operator with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, provides security for Landing Zone Alpha, Jungle Warfare Training Center, Okinawa, Japan, May 26, 2022. 3rd LSB conducted convoys with simulated opposition forces to prepare for future operations and foster force readiness. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Franklin Cites, a mortarman with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, fires an M320 grenade launcher module while conducting fire team attacks during a Tactical Small Unit Leader Course on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, July 26, 2022. This training improved the Marines proficiency at the tactical level and developed small-unit leadership. 3/2 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Cites is a native of Morgan, West Virginia.

060219-A-7603W-020. Subject Operation/Series: VAULTED RAMPART Base: Grafenwoehr State: Bayern Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Tyler Rietter, a Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, native and rifleman with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, fires his rifle during a Combat Marksmanship Competition on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 27, 2022. The purpose of this course of fire is to test the limit of the Marines shooting capabilities under physical exertion in order to develop proficiency in their individual skills and increase the lethality of the unit.

U.S. Special Operations Forces assigned to 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), participate in a combat marksmanship exercise at Panzer Range, in Boeblingen, Germany, Feb. 14, 2024. Combat marksmanship training increases team lethality, builds cohesion, and provides integrated training to new members of the unit. Army

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 35th Infantry Division conduct M17 and M4 individual weapons qualification ranges at Udairi Ranges, Kuwait, Sept. 22, 2022.

Sgt. Benjamin Miller competed in the U.S. Army Sustainment Command Best Warrior Competition in Marseilles, Illinois, May 16-20, and is now the 2022 ASC Best Warrior! He will go on and represent ASC at this years U.S. Army Materiel Command Best Warrior Competition.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Tykeim Simoneaux, a Vacherie, Louisiana, native and rifleman with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, fires his rifle during a Combat Marksmanship Competition on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 27, 2022. The purpose of this course of fire is to test the limit of the Marines shooting capabilities under physical exertion in order to develop proficiency in their individual skills and increase the lethality of the unit.

US Air National Guard SENIOR AIRMAN Andrew Moya assists his teammate, US Air Force STAFF Sergeant Allan Bachand, with a M60 machine gun misfeed while competing in the Combat Weapons event of DEFENDER CHALLENGE 2000 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Defender Challenge is the annual Air Force wide competition sponsored by Air Force Security Forces. This competition showcases the talents and capabilities of 13 international Security Forces teams in 24 events over six days. Subject Operation/Series: DEFENDER CHALLENGE '00 Base: Lackland Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Pvt. Kendrick Harper, assigned to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2CR), 2nd Squadron, searches for enemies during a Simulated Training Exercise (STX) held by 2CR at Vilseck, Germany Feb. 6, 2024. The STX engages in platoon-level training within field and urban environments, enhancing their combat readiness, lethality and team cohesion. Army Reserve

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Ezekieo Wroe, a gunner with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, provides suppression against the enemy on Range 400 during Integrated Training Exercise (ITX) on Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, May 16, 2022. ITX creates a challenging, realistic training environment that produces combat-ready forces capable of operating as an integrated MAGTF.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jerry Hall, a fire team leader with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII fires at his target on a live-fire range during exercise UNITAS LXIII in Marambaia, Brazil, Sept. 9, 2022. The training event consisted of several squad tactics including maneuver under fire and machine gun suppression drills. UNITAS trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious, and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating navy and marine forces. Hall is a native of Yorktown, Virginia.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tristan Ressler, a 379th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron defender, shoots an M-4 carbine during a shoot, move and communicate demonstration July 2, 2022 at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. The Defenders used non-lethal paint filled rounds to safely execute the training.

U.S. Army Pvt. Aaron Peete-Bey, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, shoots a M-4 during the Eighth Army 2022 Best Warrior and Squad Competition at Rodriguez Live-Fire Range, South Korea, May 10, 2022. The Eighth Army Best Warrior and Squad Competition is a week-long competition consisting of several events to test the participants general Army knowledge and skills.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Brian Smith, a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense chief with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (CLB-6), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, fires a M4A1 rifle during a CBRN range in preparation for exercise Freezing Winds 22 in Syndalen, Finland, Oct. 11, 2022. Task Force Red Cloud, headquartered by elements of CLB-6, is deployed to Finland in support of Exercises SYD 2022 and Freezing Winds 2022 to enhance U.S. and Finnish select interdependence in the maritime domain; solidify bilateral maritime maneuver within the Finnish littoral environment; and foster strong relationships between U.S. Marine Corps and Finnish Defense Force sustainment units.

Spc. Aaron Fiscelli of Saint Claire, Michigan, a Health Care Specialist with the Michigan National Guards 1171st Medical Company Area Support Company shoots the .50 caliber machine gun as part of the the stress shoot event during the Region IV Best Warrior Competition on May 12, 2022. He is one of twelve National Guard Soldiers competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, post security during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

U.S. Army Reserve Soldier Sgt. Kelson Brooks, assigned to the 982nd Combat Camera Company (Airborne) conducts M4 Carbine marksmanship qualifications on Fort Jackson, SC, April 9, 2022. Soldiers qualify their marksmanship every year in order to maintain combat readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Diego Tovar, a rifleman with Foxtrot Co., 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, from Whitewater, Wisconsin, establishes security in a field at exercise Gunslinger 22 in Riley, Kansas, June 22, 2022. Exercise Gunslinger 22 is a joint exercise with the Kansas Air National Guard and U.S. Marine Corps designed to increase aircraft control and training for potential real-world contingencies.

A U.S. Marine conducts a bilateral amphibious landing during Balikatan 22, Claveria, Philippines, March 31, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan, Tagalog for shoulder-to-shoulder, is a longstanding bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the United States highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between both countries. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

A U.S. Army Soldier prepares to suppress targets while his teammates conduct a casualty movement lane during the International Sniper Competition 2022, April 5, 2022, on Fort Benning, GA. Organized by the U.S. Army Sniper School, the competition drew 30 three-man teams from both U.S. and foreign militaries, including competitors from the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Israel. This was the first year that the competition tested three-man teams instead of the usual two-man teams.

Army Sgt. Xavier Martinez, a Soldier with 503rd Military Police Battalion, fires his M4 carbine at a weapons qualification range on Fort Drum, N.Y., March 8, 2023. This event was conducted as part of a best squad competition designed to assess Soldiers on technical and tactical proficiency and teamwork.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jason Sewell, rifleman assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fires an M4 service rifle during a live-fire exercise aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), June 27, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Matthew Johnsen a machine gunner with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M240B machine gun during a live fire deck shoot aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 28, 2022. Marines and Sailors conducted weapons training to further educate their Marines on different weapons platforms. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Army Soldier with the 1-114th Infantry Regiment, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, zero fires the M4 carbine before a range qualification on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, Oct. 22, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Sung Shin, an fires and effects integrator, with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires a M18 service pistol during a Combat Marksmanship Program range as part of 2nd Brigade Platoons field exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 14, 2024. CMP allows Marines to maintain weapon proficiency by engaging targets in a competitive environment with primary and secondary weapon systems. 5th ANGLICO Marines refined their shooting fundamentals through advanced marksmanship training, enhancing their lethality. Shin is a native of Duluth, GA. Marine Corps

110305-N-RC734-314PACIFIC OCEAN (March 5, 2011) Cpl. Rosa Luna, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 13, participates in a small arms live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45). Comstock is part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group underway on a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Hayden Kingsbury, a machine gunner with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, conducts live-fire drills during Exercise Shinka 22.1 at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, June 16, 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions. 3/2 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Kingsbury is a native of Mars Hill, Maine.

A U.S. Marine with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires his M4 carbine during a field exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 26, 2023. The purpose of this exercise is to increase lethality and readiness of Marines within the unit.III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Zach Campbell, a recruit with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, shoots the table one course of fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 9, 2022. The table one course of fire covers the basic fundamentals of marksmanship and rifle safety. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacob Hutchinson)

A Marine with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment provides security while out on patrol in Marjah, Afghanistan, Feb. 17. Several days after coalition forces launched an assault against insurgents taking refuge in the city, the fighting continues to manifest in sporadic outbursts.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires an M240B machine gun during tactical small unit leaders course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 4, 2022. 1st Radio Battalion participated in TSULC to give small unit leaders the confidence, knowledge and ability to better lead their Marines in combat situations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Michah McLeod, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets security for tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise at Snipe Mt. Okinawa, Japan Aug. 16, 2022. TRAP operations are conducted to ensure key assets do not fall into enemy hands, and proper medical care is given to injured personnel. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A student in the Combat Medic Specialist Training Program provides security for his platoon during combat field training, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The training facility allows soldiers to train under conditions that simulate what they are going to see on the battlefield. Soldier medics will train in the environment and the conditions of stress.

U.S. Army Cpl. James Whitaker, assigned to 7th Army Training Commands Training Support Activity Europe, trains on an M240b machine gun at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, March 23, 2023. The 2nd Cavalry Regiment provides V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps, with combat-credible forces capable of rapid deployment throughout the European theater to defend the NATO alliance.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Willian Betts, the commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, fires an M4 carbine at Prince Sultan Air Bases firing range, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, July 8, 2022. The 378th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron invited the 378th AEW leadership out to see some of the squadrons equipment and feel its capabilities firsthand.

031015-M-9382M-024. US Marine Corps (USMC) Lance Corporal (LCPL) Strong, is shown here during Exercise ROLLING THUNDER 2003, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, receives training operating a FNMI 5.56mm M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW).

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jordan Belyea, a scout sniper assigned to Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, sights in his rifle during exercise Alexander the Great 2022 in Glafyra, Greece, May 10, 2022. Alexander the Great 22 strengthens interoperability and force readiness between the U.S., Greece, and Allied nations, enhancing strategic defense and partnership to preserve security and stability in the region.

Air National Guard members from the 219th Security Forces squadron perform an exercise where they must reclaim a launch facility from opposing forces at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, Aug. 10, 2022. Exercises like this allow guard members to keep well trained in case they are called upon for a real reaction.

Soldiers with the 370th Chemical Company participate in weapons qualifications on ranges at Fort McCoy, Wis., as part of the Red Dragon exercise in August, 2022. U.S. Army photo by Kevin W. Clark

U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, set security with an M27 Infantry Automatic Rifles during a training event at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 12, 2022. This training allowed small unit leaders to practice decision making and problem solving in a realistic scenario.

LOGAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan -U.S. Army Spc. Mark E. Fielding, a Benton, La., native and rifleman assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Task Force Storm, provides security for Afghan National Security Forces on day five of a six-day dismounted operation here Dec. 23. Soldiers of Co. C and ANSF pushed through western Baraki Barak on a six-day foot patrol to eliminate Taliban influence and establish a Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan presence.

A Green Beret with 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) engages a target during the Menton 2022 Best Sniper Competition at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Dec. 5, 2022. The competition is comprised of nine teams, including a team from the British Armys 4th Battalion, Ranger Regiment. During the competition, team events incorporate precision marksmanship, moving targets, live-fire stalks, and stress shoots conducted during daylight and hours of limited visibility. Throughout the event, participants use the M24 Sniper Weapon System, 5.56 M4 carbine, and 9mm pistol.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Eli Brash, a Baltimore native and field artillery cannoneer with 2d Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, operates an M2 machine gun during a hide and seek field exercise on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 26, 2022. This event is a true force-on-force exercise in which participating forces thoroughly test and document tactics, techniques, and procedures for operations in the information environment in support of expeditionary advanced based operations and stand-in forces.

Pfc. Ivan Arredondo, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, shoots an M203 grenade launcher with a recently developed sight as part of new equipment training at Kaneohe Bay range training facility, Nov. 19. The new sight is smaller and lighter and features a holographic red dot sight for easier aiming and includes ballistic data.

Spc. Michael Wallace of Springfield, Illinois, a Signal Support Systems Specialist with the Illinois National Guards Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment shoots the .50 caliber machine gun as part of the the stress shoot event during the Region IV Best Warrior Competition on May 12, 2022. He is one of twelve National Guard Soldiers competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

modern warfare american marines soldier in action while sneaking and aiming on laseer sight optics in combat position and searching for target in battle

British Armed Forces snipers fire from atop a vehicle at a long range target during the Latvia International Snipers Competition as part of Defender Europe at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, May 13, 2022. Defender Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe. The exercise demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters in support of NATO.

Our friends from the 870th MP Company did some work at the range on shotguns. Soldiers shot the M26-Modular Accessory Shotgun System on 16 July 2022 at Camp Roberts. SPC Arron Adams, SGT Brett Kaufman, and SGT Adrian Arroyo show the ins and outs of this weapon and being the spotters for the other Soldiers at Camp Roberts, CA July 16, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gregory Mangini, a rifleman with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, fires a Mk 153 Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon while conducting fire team attack drills on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 10, 2022. This training improved the Marines proficiency at the tactical level and developed small-unit leadership. 3/3 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Mangini is a native of Dublin, Ohio.

U.S. Marines assigned to 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division fire M240B machine guns during a crew-served weapons range during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.1 at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Hijudai Training Area, Japan, April 22, 2022. The skills developed at ARTP increase the lethality and proficiency of the only permanently forward-deployed artillery unit in the Marine Corps, providing long-range precision indirect fires throughout the Indo-Pacific Region.

SINGAPORE - U.S. Army Pfc. William Brownsword, an infantryman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team out of Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington, prepares to reload his M4A1 Carbine during the Field Training Exercise event of Exercise Tiger Balm 2022 here, June 15, 2022. Tiger Balm builds readiness and demonstrates U.S. Army commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A Soldier from Squad 11, representing the U.S. Army Materiel Command during the Armys first-ever Best Squad Competition, fires his M4A1 carbine at the weapon qualification range on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The week-long competition assessed each squad on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team, featuring a multitude of fitness, knowledge and combat-related events.

Low angle portrait of U.S. Army Ranger with machine gun, looking up to sky.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Christian Aleman, from Miami, a squad leader assigned to A Battery, scans the area for possible dangers while out on patrol April 7. A Battery is part of the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, Task Force Spartan Steel.

Sgt. Bobby Morales, a networking communications specialist with 22d Corps Signal Brigade, takes aim down range during the Infantry Team event portion of the First Corps Marksmanship Competition on Range 22, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Feb. 29, 2024.The I Corps Marksmanship Competition is an annual competition, in which I Corps and subordinate units compete for the opportunity to be named the best marksman. Army

U.S. Marine Corps machine gunners with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division prepare for an urban assault at Saylor Creek Range in Grasmere, Idaho during Exercise Garnet Rattler April 21, 2022. Garnet Rattler is a joint training event between Marines, Soldiers and Airmen to train and qualify JTACs to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment.

Staff Sgt. Caleb Stinson, 68W Combat Medic, 232nd Medical Battalion, fires his weapon during the firing portion of the Best Medic Competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. During the competition, two-soldier teams navigate a grueling series of events that push their stress, physical, and emergency medical skills to the limits. Among the many challenges the competitors face are an obstacle course, a physical fitness challenge, land navigation, and stress shoots on a firing range, which test their ability to fight despite difficult conditions. And, competitors medical proficiencies are tested in day and night combat medic lanes that demand effective management of simulated casualties. Competitors progress through all of these exhausting challenges in just 3 days.

A U.S Marine with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, calls out a command during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 1, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

A U.S. Army National Guard Soldier assigned to the 340th Military Police company readies a M240B machine gun as part of a situational tactical exercise on Joint Base McGuire-Dix Lakehurst, N.J., July 27, 2022. Soldiers from the 333rd MP Brigade, 340th MP Battalion gathered here for Gotham Justice, a four-week exercise that trained, challenged and improved Soldiers primary skill sets and core MP competencies required in detention operations and security and mobility support operations.

Soldiers of the 184th Sustainment Command fire the M240B crew served weaponsduring a multi-day qualification event at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center Range on June 8, 2022.

Members of the Marine detachment from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70) fire an M-60 machine gun during a live-fire exercise. Base: Naval Station, Subic Bay State: Luzon Country: Philippines (PHL)

Pfc. Logan Schwenk recommends corrections to Spc. Jose Vera's aim at an M2 machine gun familiarization range July 20, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. Schwenk and Vera are combat engineers with the 863rd Engineer Battalion from Darien, Illinois, and attended Warrior Exercise 78-22-02, which aids the Army Reserve's mission to provide combat-ready units and Soldiers to the Army and the Joint Force across the full spectrum of conflict.

U.S. Soldiers, assigned to the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (ABN), scan their sectors of fire during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 15, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotation exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Armys 173rd IBCT (ABN) to execute unified land operations in a joint combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied partner nations at the U.S. Armys Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas.

U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to Bastion Company, 54th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade conduct a "seize the objective" exercise at the Novo Selo Training Site, Bulgaria, Feb. 3, 2023. During this exercise Soldiers are required to correctly and proficiently react to enemy contact, return live fire, and provide medical care under fire. Pfc. Edward White provides cover fire for his team. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance.

A U.S. Soldier assigned to the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, fires his weapon during an M4A1 carbine zeroing at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, July 19, 2022. The 3/4 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Marines with Food Service Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, fire an M240B medium machine gun on Range 7 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. The purpose of the training was to improve the Marines ability to operate both light and medium machine guns in a combat environment. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

A soldier fights in a warforest area surrounded by fire.. A soldier fights in a warforest area surrounded by fire

030502-M-3692C-006. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jake Brandimarte, a Seaford, New York, native and squad leader with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, poses for a photo during Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 28, 2022. Something I would tell someone wanting to join the Marine Corps is think long and hard about your decision. said Brandimarte. The Marine Corps is a beast of its own and you will only get in return what you put into it. Dont come into the Marine Corps half hearted, make sure you're invested in your decision. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

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